Impeller installation problem

[fishfun83]

I have a 1997 80hp outboard. Replaced the impeller yesterday and the boat does not go into gear. Reading on the forum, the lower unit needs to be in neutral when installed. My question is, can you change gears by rotating the spline on the lower unit by hand or do I need to use plyers. I can't seem to find neutral by rotating by hand. Any help is appreciated.

[robert graham]

Wrap a rag around shifter shaft splines to protect it, and use some Channel Lock pliers to shift it back and forth while turning prop shaft until you find neutral. Also put your remote control lever in neutral. When you put it together it'll be synchronized. Good Luck!

[fishfun83]

Thank you Robert Graham. That did the trick. Took me 5 minutes.